Last updated: August 21, 2025
Experience the winter charm of Nagano, Japan in January, where temperatures hover around an average of -2°C (29°F), with highs reaching up to 10°C (51°F) and lows dropping to a brisk -15°C (6°F). This month witnesses a significant precipitation amount of 144 mm (5.7 in) spread over 21 days, creating a picturesque snowy landscape that is often accompanied by 88% humidity. Whether you're drawn to the serenity of snow-covered mountains or the vibrant local culture, January in Nagano offers a unique blend of winter wonder and cozy charm.
In January, Nagano, Japan experiences a winter chill that sets the stage for its stunning snowy landscapes. With temperatures ranging from a biting low of -15°C (6°F) to a mild 10°C (51°F), the average temperature hovers around -2°C (29°F), marking it as one of the coldest months of the year. This trend of dropping temperatures slowly eases into February, where the mercury barely budges from January's lows. As winter progresses into March, a noticeable shift occurs, with temperatures climbing to a more moderate 4°C (39°F) on average, hinting at the approach of spring. The transition from the deep chill of January to the burgeoning warmth of March showcases Nagano's dramatic seasonal changes, enticing visitors with both its frigid beauty and the promise of the blooming season ahead.
In January, Nagano experiences a notable precipitation pattern, with an average of 144 mm (5.7 in) over approximately 21 days. This marks the onset of winter, setting the stage for heavy snowfall in the months to follow. As the winter progresses into February and March, precipitation slightly decreases to 129 mm (5.1 in) and 133 mm (5.2 in) respectively, while the number of rainy days tapers off. However, the trend shifts dramatically by July, when rainfall peaks at a staggering 341 mm (13.4 in), characterized by increased precipitation days, highlighting the region's summer monsoon. Overall, Nagano's January weather signifies the beginning of a colder, wetter season, with its precipitation trends highlighting distinct seasonal shifts that contribute to the area's lush landscapes.
In January, Nagano experiences a high humidity level of 88%, setting the tone for a winter filled with moisture. This trend continues into February, where humidity slightly dips to 86%, before gradually decreasing to 81% in March and hitting its seasonal low of 78% in April. However, as spring transitions into summer, humidity levels rise again, peaking at 92% in both July and August. Interestingly, this summer humidity mirrors the 88% seen in January, creating a consistent pattern of high moisture. As autumn rolls in, humidity remains relatively stable, fluctuating between 85% and 89% from September to November before finishing the year with a slight increase to 86% in December. Overall, Nagano’s humidity showcases a fascinating cycle, characterized by a late-winter high akin to that of summer months, leading to an intriguing climate dynamic throughout the year.
In January, Nagano experiences a moderate UV Index of 4, suggesting a relatively safe environment for outdoor activities with a burn time of about 30 minutes. As winter gives way to spring, UV levels rise sharply, reaching a high of 6 in February and then spiking dramatically to very high levels of 9 by March and April. This trend continues as May, June, July, and August hover at an extreme 11, dramatically reducing burn time to just 10 minutes. By September, UV exposure begins to taper off, settling back to very high at 10, before falling to high in October and ultimately returning to moderate levels in November and December. This progression highlights the importance of sun safety as the seasons change. For more detailed information, visit the Nagano UV Index.
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In January, Nagano, Japan welcomes the year with a modest 174 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the months ahead. As winter transitions into spring, the sunlight gradually increases, soaring to 224 hours in February and reaching 261 hours by March. This upward trend continues, peaking in the vibrant month of May with an impressive 300 hours of sunshine, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to relish the natural beauty of the region. Following this peak, sunlight begins to slightly taper, though it remains plentiful, with 290 hours in August. This pattern of gradual decrease persists into the fall, culminating in 208 hours by December. Overall, January may start the year on a softer note, but the progression of sunshine throughout the seasons paints a picture of flourishing daylight that captivates residents and visitors alike.
In Nagano, Japan, the likelihood of sunny weather in January stands at a modest 26%, making it one of the months with the least sunshine. As winter progresses into February, however, sun-seekers can expect a noticeable increase, with chances rising to 39%. This trend continues throughout the spring months, peaking in April at 43% before settling into a more variable pattern in the summer. Notably, May experiences a dip, returning to 25%, while the chances of sunny days diminish again during the humid months of June and August. Interestingly, the transition into autumn brings back more sunny days, with November jumping to 42%. Overall, the data highlights a clear seasonal pattern, with January being significantly less sunny compared to the later winter and spring months.
In January, Nagano experiences 9 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual increase as the year progresses. By February, this rises to 10 hours, marking the start of longer days that continue through the spring. March brings 11 hours, and by April, daylight extends to 13 hours, creating an inviting atmosphere as nature awakens from winter's slumber. The trend peaks in the summer months of May, June, and July, each boasting 14 hours of sunlight, perfect for outdoor adventures. As autumn approaches, the days begin to shorten, with August and September offering 13 and 12 hours respectively, before tapering off to 11 hours in October. The cycle concludes with 10 hours in November and returns to 9 hours in December, illustrating a rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight that beautifully marks the changing seasons in this serene Japanese landscape.
In January, wind in Nagano, Japan, is gentle, with an average speed of 1.9 m/s (4 mph), a consistency that carries over into February. As the seasons begin to shift, March sees a slight uptick to 2.0 m/s (5 mph), marking the transition toward spring. The breeze continues to strengthen in April, reaching 2.1 m/s (5 mph), before settling back to the more moderate 1.9 m/s (4 mph) in May. As summer approaches, the winds noticeably calm down, with average speeds dipping to around 1.3 to 1.5 m/s (3 mph) during the peak months of July and August. This tranquil pattern persists into early autumn, with September through November maintaining steady winds around 1.6 m/s (4 mph). As the year wraps up in December, the winds pick up slightly to 1.8 m/s (4 mph), heralding the return of winter's chill. Overall, January's mild breezes set a tranquil tone that flows seamlessly through the seasons, creating a serene atmosphere in this picturesque region.
Weather in Nagano varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Nagano, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparison to January, February's weather in Nagano presents a slight warming trend, with average temperatures increasing from -2°C (29°F) in January to -1°C (30°F). The maximum temperature also sees a rise, reaching 16°C (61°F) in February, compared to 10°C (51°F) in January. Although February has slightly less precipitation at 129 mm (5.1 in) over 19 days, it maintains a similar high humidity level of 86%, just a notch lower than January's 88%. For more details on February weather in Nagano, check out Nagano weather in February.
January weather in Nagano is characterized by frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while March shows a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of -9°C (16°F) and reaching an average of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation levels are somewhat similar, with January experiencing 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, compared to March's 133 mm (5.2 in) across 18 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in January at 88%, whereas March has a slightly lower humidity level of 81%. For more detailed insights, you can refer to Nagano weather in March.
January and April present notably contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plunge to a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and typically hover around an average of -2°C (29°F), reaching a maximum of 10°C (51°F). The month is characterized by high precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over about 21 days, along with high humidity at 88%. In stark contrast, April experiences a much milder climate, with minimum temperatures of -5°C (22°F) and average highs of 9°C (48°F), peaking at a warm 27°C (81°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 141 mm (5.5 in) spread over 16 days, and humidity drops to 78%. For more details on the climatic conditions in April, you can check Nagano weather in April.
In January, the weather in Nagano is characterized by cold temperatures, with lows reaching as low as -15°C (6°F) and an average temperature around -2°C (29°F). The month sees a significant amount of precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, May brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 0°C (33°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F) and an average of 15°C (59°F). Although May experiences slightly higher overall precipitation at 160 mm (6.3 in), it occurs over fewer days (16 days), and humidity decreases to 81%. This transition from the frigid winter of January to the mild spring of May highlights the dramatic seasonal changes typical of Nagano's climate. For more details about May weather in Nagano, visit Nagano weather in May.
The weather in January and June presents a stark contrast in Nagano. January experiences cold temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), while June boasts much milder conditions, ranging from a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and an average of 18°C (65°F), peaking at a comfortable 30°C (87°F). Both months see significant precipitation—144 mm (5.7 in) in January across 21 days and 171 mm (6.7 in) in June spread over 18 days—yet the humidity remains consistent at 88% year-round. For a more detailed outlook on June weather in Nagano, visit Nagano weather in June.
January and July in Nagano showcase stark contrasts in weather. January experiences frigid temperatures, with a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F), leading to snow and winter conditions. In contrast, July warms up significantly, boasting a minimum temperature of 15°C (60°F) and an average of 22°C (73°F), making it a much more pleasant time for outdoor activities. Precipitation also varies, with January receiving 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, while July sees increased rainfall at 341 mm (13.4 in) spread across 25 days. Both months have high humidity, with January at 88% and July slightly higher at 92%. For more detailed information, you can check Nagano weather in July.
January and August present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures dip significantly, ranging from a chilly -15°C (6°F) at night to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) during the day, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. Precipitation is considerable, with 144 mm (5.7 in) falling over 21 days, creating a wintry landscape. In contrast, August brings warmth, with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 11°C (52°F) to a high of 35°C (95°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). While precipitation increases to 198 mm (7.8 in) over 23 days, the humidity rises slightly to 92%, contributing to a muggy summer atmosphere. For more details on the summer climate, check out Nagano weather in August.
January and September present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can drop as low as -15°C (6°F) with an average around -2°C (29°F), whereas in September, temperatures are milder, ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 32°C (89°F). Additionally, January experiences significant snowfall, with precipitation amounting to 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, while September, despite being wetter overall with 194 mm (7.6 in) of rainfall over 19 days, showcases warmer and more pleasant conditions. Both months exhibit high humidity levels, with January at 88% and September slightly higher at 89%. For more detailed insights, check out Nagano weather in September.
January and October present contrasting weather experiences. In January, temperatures can plunge to a chilling minimum of -15°C (6°F), with an average hovering around -2°C (29°F) and a maximum reaching 10°C (51°F). This frigid month sees substantial precipitation, totaling 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, and humidity remains high at 88%. In stark contrast, October offers a much milder climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 2°C (36°F) to a comfortable maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Although October receives more precipitation at 217 mm (8.5 in) across 18 days, the humidity level is slightly lower at 87%. For more insights on October weather, you can check out Nagano weather in October.
January and November present strikingly different weather patterns. In January, temperatures plunge to a minimum of -15°C (6°F) and average around -2°C (29°F), reaching a maximum of only 10°C (51°F). This cold month is characterized by high precipitation of 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, coupled with humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, November offers a milder climate with minimum temperatures of -8°C (19°F) and an average of 7°C (44°F), peaking at a comfortable 21°C (70°F). Precipitation is also less frequent in November, totaling 94 mm (3.7 in) across 15 days, with a slightly lower humidity of 85%. For more details on the weather patterns in November, you can check Nagano weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be colder on average, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -15°C (6°F) to a maximum of 10°C (51°F) and an average of -2°C (29°F). In contrast, December sees slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -10°C (14°F), an average of 1°C (34°F), and a maximum of 19°C (66°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with January recording 144 mm (5.7 in) over 21 days, while December has 151 mm (6.0 in) spread across 20 days. Humidity levels are also comparable, at 88% for January and 86% for December. For more details on December's weather specifically, you can visit Nagano weather in December.
January in Nagano is characterized by its chilly embrace, as temperatures dip significantly compared to other months, making it one of the coldest periods of the year. With a striking contrast between its maximum and minimum temperatures, this month experiences an average temperature that hovers around -2°C (29°F), ensuring that warmth becomes a cherished commodity. The high humidity levels, coupled with frequent precipitation over 21 days, contribute to a frigid atmosphere that can feel particularly biting. For those planning to visit, it’s essential to prepare for cold and wet conditions that define January. To learn more about how this month fits into Nagano's overall climate, visit Nagano Climate.